Don't Discriminate this World AIDS Day

ACT Health Minister, Katy Gallagher MLA, has urged the community to help reduce the stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS as this can directly lead to poor health outcomes.

The Minister was speaking on World AIDS Day – one of the world's most recognised commemorative days, celebrated in 190 countries and held annually on 1 December.

“The theme for this year’s AIDS Awareness Week is ‘Take Action, No Discrimination’ as a reminder that HIV/AIDS does not discriminate, and that we can all take action to address this serious health issue,” Ms Gallagher said.

“Whilst gay men are the group most affected in Australia, people from a diverse range of backgrounds are affected by HIV/AIDS.

“As a community we need to keep discussing HIV/AIDS issues to improve support for people living with the illness and to prevent further infections.

“While the number of newly diagnosed infections has remained relatively steady in the ACT over the past five years, and the ACT has one of the lowest rates of infection, it is important we continue efforts to prevent the further spread of HIV in our community.

“People can wear the red ribbon to show their concern and support for people living with HIV, and their commitment to preventing HIV infection.”

Australia’s response to HIV/AIDS has been led by a partnership of affected communities, community organisations, governments and the medical profession which have joined in with the community sector to tackle this important issue together.

Locally, ACT Health funded organisations such as the AIDS Action Council of the ACT, and the Canberra Sexual Health Centre, continue to grapple with the ongoing and changing complexities of this disease.

This successful partnership approach continues with the development of a new five year national Strategy on HIV/AIDS, which is expected to be released in the first half of next year.

1 December 2009